Bookworms always look for a cosy nook where they can indulge in a peaceful reading, and if it is surrounded by captivating verdant greenery, the reading becomes more delightful. Such is a cosy reading space designed by Hiroshi Nakamura and NAP Architects in Kurkku Fields, Japan that burrows book aficionados into the sustainable architecture swathed with fields of green grass. Read more about this 'Underground Library' and decipher its other hidden surprises in detail below on SURFACES REPORTER (SR).
Surrounded by vast greenery, this underground library offers a tranquil space for readers and book lovers to read while staying within the reach of nature. The firm designed this reading haven under the ground like a cave rather than towering above the ground. It is tucked at the centre of the land which has been defined by a mortar shape.
People abruptly find the library's entrance, while roaming around Kurkku Fields. The unique architecture captivates readers to enter the library while the unexpected and enthralling interior driven by architecture and books keeps them mesmerised and absorbed
No Beams and Columns
The interesting part of this library is its architectural elements such as beams and columns vanish to make way for the round sunroof that reflects the look of a mole's hole. It is permeated with a number of wooden elements that adds to the warmth and tranquillity of the space. As the elevation shifts, the internal ceiling height slopes and a small concealed room is carved in one of the spaces to provide the required privacy to the reader.
The interiors including the ceiling, walls and floor are coated with a soil finish, and the grass that is added to the vertical surface of the slab edge hangs down, offering a sense of moisture to the space.
Packed With 3,000 books
The library, which opened on Feb 16th of 2023, accommodates a total of 3,000 books with a collection centred on nature and agricultural life, philosophy, history, religion, science, and economics. The ceiling of the main hall allows natural soft light to seep in and fill the interior spaces with its galore.
Named Cocoon Villa, the place allows visitors and readers to stay and spend a night in this fantasy-like underground library in Japan. It works on a similar concept as plants and vegetables that grow with microbes in the soil as nutrients, it allows people to burrow into the ground, read books, gather knowledge and cultivate the power of imagination to grow bigger and better in future.
Project Details
Project Name: Underground Library
Architecture Firm: Hiroshi Nakamura and NAP Architects
Location: Kurkku Fields in 2503 Yana, Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan
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